August 2020 | Fifty Plus Richmond by The Beacon Newspapers

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Reader snapshots A couple of months ago, I shared some For example, just over half our readers insights that we learned from hundreds of have grandchildren, about 25% have a readers who answered our household pet, and nearly survey asking how the pan60% regularly use Facebook demic has affected them. (by far the most popular soWe followed that up with ancial media with our readers). other survey, asking readers One in three readers more about who they are, what plans to make home imtheir future plans are, and provements in the next 12 what they think of our publicamonths, while a similar numtions (both Fifty Plus and her ber are considering a move sister Beacon publications) within the next two years. and our advertisers. Over the years we have This type of information is FROM THE been doing such surveys, especially valuable to us, both PUBLISHER we frequently used to see 30 so we know for whom we are By Stuart P. Rosenthal to 40% of readers considerwriting, and so we can let our ing a move, but in recent advertisers know more about years, that had dropped to you. the low 20s. I thought some of this information So, it’s interesting to me that, even as might also be interesting to you, so I’m “aging in place” has grown in popularity summarizing it this month. — with a notable rise in the percent planON THE COVER: Radio host and tour guide Gary Flowers spearheaded the campaign for a statue of Maggie Walker, businesswoman and newspaper publisher, in Jackson Ward. PHOTO BY DAN CURRIER

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Editorial Mission: Fifty Plus is dedicated to providing readers with accurate information, professional guidance, and useful resources. Our publication is intended to both reflect and enhance fifty-plus lifestyles, and to encourage reader dialogue and input. Fifty Plus is published monthly and distributed free of charge. The advertising deadline is the 20th of each month for the upcoming issue. The entire contents of Fifty Plus are ©2020, The Beacon Newspapers, Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by writers and columnists do not necessarily represent those of Fifty Plus or its staff.

ning home improvements — the number planning to move has gone back up as well. In earlier years, the largest group of those planning a move were considering an independent living retirement community. But in this survey, that group was edged out by readers looking to move to a smaller home. Still, a solid third of those moving are considering independent living communities, with one in 10 looking at assisted living options for themselves. I’m kicking myself for not asking if readers were looking for housing for other family members. That might well have produced a different set of answers. Oh well, next time… Nearly 90% of our survey respondents had picked up a printed copy of our paper at one of our many free distribution sites. Most of the rest were subscribers, with only a handful saying they read us online. Similarly, nearly 90% said they read us every or most months, with fewer than 10% saying they were occasional readers or had picked up our paper for the first time. Because revenue from advertising is what enables us to print and distribute more than 200,000 copies of our four editions each month without charge to readers, we were also interested in reader response to ads. We listed a number of ways people might respond to an ad and allowed respondents to choose as many as applied. I thought this was especially informative. Two out of three respondents said they had purchased products or chosen services based on ads seen in our publication. Furthermore, more than half had referred a friend or relative to an advertiser. Nearly 50% said they call advertisers for more information, more than 40% check out an advertiser’s website, one out of three Googles the product or advertiser, one out of four shows ads to friends or family and asks for advice, and an astonishing 43% cut out ads and save them for later response. In this day and age, when so many printed publications are going out of business,

or are switching solely to publishing online, it was impressive to see how strongly our readers continue to prefer and respond to the printed medium. But we know the general trend is moving away from print. In fact, we learned only a few days before this issue went to press that the bimonthly Boomer Magazine was discontinuing publication with their July/August edition. That means Fifty Plus will now be the only regularly printed feature publication aimed at boomers and seniors in the Richmond area. We intend to continue serving you despite the trend away from print and despite the roadblocks COVID has thrown in our way. But to do that, we need your help. In order to continue printing Fifty Plus and distributing 35,000 copies free of charge each month, we need to attract not only satisfied readers, but also advertisers and advertising agencies, whose financial support keeps us afloat. Unfortunately, more and more advertisers are shifting to digital platforms only. It means the world to us that our readers love us. But we won’t be able to stay in business unless you let our advertisers know that their ads in Fifty Plus work, and encourage the places you shop and communities where you live to advertise with us as well. Please do your best to respond to the ads in our publication and to mention us when you do. And encourage friends and family with whom you share ads to do the same. And continue to look for us at the grocery stores and pharmacies where you can now find us, and let us know if there are other locations where we can place a rack and fill it every month for your convenience. Fifty Plus has been a Richmond institution for more than 25 years. We look forward to serving you, with your support, for decades to come.

Letters to the editor

Publisher/Editor — Stuart Rosenthal President/Associate Publisher — Judith K. Rosenthal Vice President, Operations — Gordon Hasenei Vice President, Sales and Marketing — Alan Spiegel Managing Editor — Margaret Foster

Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in Fifty Plus as well as on political and social issues of the day. Mail your Letter to the Editor to Fifty Plus, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email to info@fiftyplusrichmond.com. Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

Art Director — Kyle Gregory Director of Operations — Roger King Editorial Assistant — Ivey Noojin Advertising Representative — Lisa Benton-Hawkins

Dear Editor: Among the many great articles in July’s Fifty Plus, your cover story jumped right out at me: Men working at their jobs for decades, until Retirement Day. Then, making the switch that will give soul to their lives. My late husband, Aubrey, was with Philip Morris for 31 years. After retire-

ment, his longtime love — golf — beckoned, and he began caddying at the Country Club of Virginia year after year, until age and poor health no longer allowed it. Today, many great golfers still remember him with affection and delight. What a great second act! Frances Nunnally Richmond, Va.

FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

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Cover Story Taking steps to revive a historic district

Memorializing a fight for justice

On weekdays, Flowers hosts the twohour, live call-in “Gary Flowers Show” on WREJ (101.3 FM) radio. He calls his listeners the “voices of the village.” Callers ask questions, vent and expound on myriad topics, from current events to slavery, as Flowers gently prods them to think deeply and challenge the status quo. An announcer intersperses, “Gary may not agree with you, but he’s never disagreeable.” Flowers ends each show with his motto: “Think deeply, speak gently, give freely, work hard, love much, laugh a lot and be kind. And when you do this, you’ll give flowers to the people.”

A career of advocacy Flowers graduated from Richmond’s Thomas Jefferson High School and then the University of Virginia in 1985, with a major in anthropology and African American studies. After college, Flowers’ professional path focused on advancing justice. After spending some time learning about law at Richmond’s Hill, Tucker and Marsh law firm, from 1990 to 1994, he was a special assistant to former Virginia Governor Douglas Wilder, the country’s first black governor. Then, Flowers worked for the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law in Washington, D.C., where he advocated for anti-discrimination policies, environmental justice legislation, and sanctions against apartheid South Africa. Flowers monitored South Africa’s 1994

Gary Flowers hosts a live call-in radio show every weekday at 10 a.m. on 101.3 FM and 990 AM. He frequently has guests, ranging from activists to artists to Mayor Levar Stoney.

election, the first election in that country when citizens of all races could vote, which led to the election of Nelson Mandela as president. When he met Mandela, Flowers was

awed by the man’s dignity. “It was like being in the presence of a pharaoh,” he said. See GARY FLOWERS, page 8

✃

Radio talk show host

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At Adams and Broad Streets stands an imposing statue of Maggie Lena Walker, a symbol of African American entrepreneurship, empowerment and determination. Walker, the first black female bank president in the country, was the daughter of a former slave, “born with a clothes basket on my head,” she once said. After the Civil War to the 1930s, white businesses in the area refused to serve blacks, so she established a bank, department store, insurance company, Girl Scout troop and newspaper.

Flowers’ great-grandparents lived across from Walker’s headquarters on St. James Street. The National Park Service offers tours of her Leigh Street home, a National Historic Site. When the city settled on the statue’s site, a large oak tree loomed there. Flowers and others argued for the tree’s removal. “We did not want her in the shade, in the shadows,” he said. Advocates crafted a slogan: “Do not lynch the legacy of Maggie Walker” and, as part of their campaign, they played “Strange Fruit,” the haunting, 1939 Billie Holiday song about the lynching of black Americans. The tree was removed to make way for the statue, which was dedicated in 2017. As a member of Richmond’s Public Arts Commission, Flowers promotes historically and culturally accurate murals and statuary reflective of Jackson Ward’s heritage. One, a mural depicting legendary civil rights crusader and newspaper editor John Mitchell, overlooks the Walker statue. The two worked together, ran for office on a statewide ticket, and put the city’s racially segregated trolley system out of business.

PHOTO BY THE GARY FLOWERS SHOW

By Glenda C. Booth Strolling the streets of Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward with a bounce in his step and a snazzy bowtie, Gary Flowers greets almost everyone, waving at drivers and (pre-pandemic) giving bear hugs to bank employees leaving work for the day. Flowers, who hosts a Richmond radio show, loves meeting people, which is partly why he leads “Walking the Ward” tours. “My purpose in life is to connect with people. I feel like an ambassador,” he said. In its heyday, Jackson Ward, where Flowers grew up, had more than 100 black-owned businesses, including insurance companies, six banks, two hospitals, law offices, churches, the Hippodrome Theater, clubs and other businesses. Over the years, however, the community changed due to black flight, indifference, systemic racism and lack of access to capital, Flowers maintains. Flowers dreams of a revived, bustling Second Street in Jackson Ward — a return to its glory days as the epicenter of commerce and “Harlem of the South” in the early 20th century. He envisions a thriving business corridor with a micro-business incubator, music clubs, soul food restaurants, insurance companies and even a tap-dancing institute in honor of legendary tap dancer Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, who was born in Jackson Ward. Located less than a mile from the State Capitol, Jackson Ward was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1978. Today, Flowers is urging the city and state to designate Second Street as a “Corridor of Culture and Commerce” to better recognize and formalize the preservation of Jackson Ward. In his tours, radio and other work, Flowers wants to highlight overlooked Black Americans’ contributions, citing, for example, two inventors: Alice Parker, for the gas furnace, and Garrett Morgan, for a precursor to the gas mask. On his May 25 Memorial Day show, he said, “What we have to do is redefine what America is.” “Because I care,” Flowers said. “I’m reinserting some pages into history to include black contributions.”

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Health Fitness &

VITAMIN ZZZ Popcorn, bananas or cherries at bedtime can improve sleep quality SKIN CARE 101 A good routine can de-stress your skin and reduce wrinkles (hint: sunscreen) KICK THE HABIT Some good tips for smoking cessation, and how Medicare can pay for it TEA TIME Chamomile oil relieves arthritis pain, while the tea works as a blood thinner

Study suggests red light improves vision Courtesy of University College London Staring at a deep red light for three minutes a day can significantly improve declining eyesight, according to a new study from University College London, the first of its kind in humans. Scientists believe the discovery, published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, could signal the dawn of new, affordable home-based eye therapies, helping the millions of people globally with naturally declining vision. “As you age your visual system declines significantly, particularly once over 40,” said lead author, professor Glen Jeffery of the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology. “Your retinal sensitivity and your color vision are both gradually undermined, and with an aging population, this is an increasingly important issue. To try to stem or reverse this decline, we sought to reboot the retina’s aging cells with short bursts of longwave light.”

How red light helps In humans around 40 years old, cells in the eye’s retina begin to age faster than in

other organs. This is caused, in part, by the decline in ability of the cells’ mitochondria to fuel cell functions by producing ATP (adenosine triphosphate). The retina’s photoreceptor cells include cones, which are responsible for color vision, and rods, which provide peripheral vision and adapt vision in low or dim light. These cells have high-energy demands, so they possess greater numbers of mitochondria. However, over a lifespan, ATP is reduced in retinal cells by 70%, causing a significant decline in photoreceptor function as cells lack the energy needed to perform their normal roles. Researchers built on their previous findings in mice, bumblebees and fruit flies, which all found significant improvements in the function of the retina’s photoreceptors when exposed to 670 nanometer (long wavelength) deep red light. “Mitochondria have specific light-absorbance characteristics influencing their performance: Longer wavelengths spanning 650 to 1,000 nm are absorbed and improve mitochondrial performance to increase energy production,” Jeffery said.

How the study worked Researchers recruited 24 people (12 male and 12 female) without eye disease. All participants’ eyes were tested for the sensitivity of their rods and cones at the start of the study. Rod sensitivity was measured in darkadapted eyes (with pupils dilated) by asking participants to detect dim light signals in the dark. Cone function was tested by subjects identifying colored letters that had very low contrast and appeared increasingly blurred, a process called color contrast. All participants were then given a small LED flashlight to take home and were asked to look into its deep red 670 nm light beam for three minutes a day for two weeks. (Participants placed their eye over the end of the flashlight. Eyes could be closed, as the red light is not filtered by the eyelid.) After the two weeks, they were re-tested for their rod and cone sensitivity. Researchers found the 670 nm light had no impact on the vision of younger individuals, but in those around 40 years and over, significant improvements were observed.

The ability to detect colors (known as cone color contrast sensitivity) improved by approximately 20% in people aged around 40 and over. Improvements were higher in the blue part of the color spectrum that is more vulnerable to aging. Rod sensitivity (the ability to see in low light) also improved significantly in the older subjects, though less than color contrast. “Our study shows that it is possible to significantly improve vision that has declined in aged individuals using simple brief exposures to light wavelengths that recharge the energy system that has declined in the retina cells, rather like recharging a battery,” Jeffery said. “The technology is simple and very safe, using a deep red light of a specific wavelength that is absorbed by mitochondria in the retina that supply energy for cellular function. Our devices cost about $15 to make, so the technology is highly accessible to members of the public.” Jeffery said further studies are continuing to determine the amount of time the red light should be used daily for optimal improvement.

Strengthen your core in minutes a day By Matthew Solan The best exercise I do only takes a minute. Granted, it is often the longest and most grueling 60 seconds of my life. I sweat, I shake, and I often collapse in relief when it’s over. But spending quality time in a plank pose always pays off. The plank pose is holding a push-up position while resting on your forearms. This simple move is the ideal exercise for strengthening crucial core muscles. As you go about your day, almost every move you make revolves around your core — from picking up items on the floor to twisting to see if the coast is clear when driving.

Why is a strong core vital? Your core is made up of several muscle groups, including your abdominals, back, hips, pelvis and buttocks. A weak core can cause all kinds of problems. It can lead to poor posture, and inevitably to neck and shoulder pain. Sore knees and hips often can be traced to a

weak core. But the biggest issue with core weakness is low back pain. Your back muscles and core help to stabilize your body before any movement. If your core is weak, the other surrounding muscles have to compensate. Over time, these muscles can suffer strain, which leads to lingering pain.

Better than sit-ups The standard sit-up is often the go-to core strengthener, but it has limits. “It only targets a portion of the core musculature, and the bending-forward motion can strain the neck and lower back,” said Eric L’Italien, a physical therapist with Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Center. By comparison, the plank pose activates all the core muscles at once and doesn’t require extra movements that can cause stress or injury. “And because it has many modifications, it can be done by almost anyone, regardless of current fitness level,” L’Italien said.

How long to hold a plank The world record for holding a plank is more than four hours, but thankfully, you don’t need to devote that much time! Most experts suggest anywhere from 10 to 30 seconds is plenty. “Focus on doing multiple sets of smaller amounts of time,” L’Italien said. As you progress, you can extend your plank for up to one or even two minutes, but don’t go beyond that. “Two minutes is often considered the maximum, and you don’t get much more benefit after that,” he said. You can perform a plank every day, on alternate days, or simply as part of your regular workouts. (I sometimes like to do mine during workday breaks.)

How to do a plank correctly Lie facedown with your forearms on the floor, with your legs extended and your feet together. You can use a mat or towel to make this more comfortable. Push into your forearms as you raise your body, so it forms a straight line from your head and neck to your feet. (Do not

let your hips rise or sag.) Keep your gaze down and hold this position as you engage your abdominal muscles. Take steady, even breaths. Try to maintain the position for up to 30 seconds and then lower your body and rest. This completes one set. Work toward completing two to three sets. When you first start to do planks, you may not be able to hold the correct position for very long. Keep practicing, and you’ll find it becomes easier to do. If resting on your forearms is uncomfortable, do the plank from a push-up position, with your arms fully extended. If you have back pain or other back issues, either do the plank on your knees, or stand straight and lean against a counter, so your body is at a 45-degree angle. If you need more of a challenge, try alternating leg lifts during the pose: raise one leg for a second or two, and then repeat with the other leg. © 2020 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

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AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

Best foods to eat for better night’s sleep By Matthew Kadey Having trouble sleeping? These snoozeinducing snacks can help you escape a slumber slump: Popcorn Eating a heavy meal within two hours of bedtime can keep you awake, but lightand-airy popcorn makes a great late-night snack. Popcorn contains carbohydrates that help send the amino acid tryptophan to your brain, where it is used to make serotonin — a sleep-inducing neurotransmitter. Choose plain, fat-free popcorn and jazz it up with a little curry powder or other

tasty topping. Halibut and more When it comes to seafood, halibut has a mild flavor and meaty texture that appeals to finicky fish eaters. It’s also packed with two building blocks for better sleep: tryptophan and vitamin B6. Other foods high in tryptophan include poultry, beef, soybeans, milk, cheese, yogurt, nuts and eggs. Mango lassi Full of antioxidants, protein and vitamins, this treat from the Indian subcontinent can satisfy your cravings for creamy and sweet — without the sugar in most ice

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Aug. 20+

GOLDEN STEPS Build up your muscular strength, balance and flexibility with 45-

minute virtual dance sessions for older adults. The free dance class takes place on Thursdays, Aug. 20 and Aug. 27 from 10:15 to 11 a.m. To sign up, email info@markhamartscouncil.com.

Aug. 27

COMPOST BASICS Are you interested in composting your food scraps for your garden? Learn techniques for beginners and veterans at a free webinar on

Thurs., Aug. 27 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. To register, visit https://bit.ly/CompostOnline.

creams. A lassi is basically a smoothie, but it’s always made with yogurt. To make a mango lassi, cut up one fresh, peeled mango and put it in a blender. Add a handful of ice, a small scoop of plain Greek yogurt and a splash of water or milk. Add a dash of stevia for extra sweetness, if desired. If mango isn’t your thing, substitute frozen berries or watermelon. Chickpeas High-fiber chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) are rich in vitamin B6, which your body uses to produce serenity-boosting serotonin. Try adding rinsed canned chickpeas to salads, soups and stews. Chamomile tea This caffeine-free herbal tea has a calming effect on the body. Plus, a hot drink before bed can make you feel cozy and ready for sleep. Honey A rise in blood sugar can reduce the brain’s production of orexin — a neurotransmitter that has been linked to wakefulness. For a touch of sweet without the sugar rush, add a little honey to your chamomile tea. Dried tart cherries A handful of dried cherries not only provides serotonin-boosting carbs, it’s also one of the few food sources of melatonin,

which has been found to promote better sleep and lessen the effects of jet lag. Turkey Wondering why you feel like napping after a big Thanksgiving feast? Tryptophan, found in turkey, is known to help calm you down and naturally get you to sleep. Not into turkey? Try roasted pumpkin seeds, which also contain tryptophan. Bananas Packed with potassium (which can help you fall asleep faster), frozen bananas are the perfect base for healthy vegan “ice cream” (sometimes called “nice cream”). To make it, place a few frozen bananas in a blender and blend for several minutes. At first, they’ll just look slimy, but eventually they’ll morph into a creamy, delectable dessert. Add a handful of chopped nuts, if you’re so inclined. Kale chips Don’t knock these roasted green “chips” until you’ve tried them. The hefty dose of vitamin K they contain helps repair and build muscles while you sleep. Simply chop up a bunch of kale, toss with olive oil and sea salt, spread on a pan and bake at 350° F until crispy. SHAPE is dedicated to helping you live a healthy and happy life. Online at shape.com. © 2020 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

Tips for skin care and wrinkle prevention Q: Between dealing with the impacts the emergence of wrinkles: of the COVID-19 pandemic and trying to Wash your face daily with a gentle, stay informed about what’s fragrance-free cleanser. happening in the world, I’m Make sure to wash with finding myself significantly lukewarm water, scrub in genmore stressed than usual, tle circular motions, and gently and it’s negatively impacting pat your face dry with a towel. my skin. Choosing a cleanser without What changes can I make added fragrance will also help to my skin care routine to minimize skin irritation. best take care of my skin and Use moisturizer immedireduce the emergence of ately after cleansing, preferwrinkles? ably while the face is still A: The skin is the human DR. Rx damp. body’s largest organ. It can By Andrew Zabala Applying moisturizer while unfortunately be one of the the face is still damp helps first targets of elevated stress hormones seal in more moisture in the skin, increasthat circulate throughout the body. Elevat- ing hydration levels to help improve skin ed stress hormone levels have been linked elasticity and smoothness. to inflammatory conditions such as acne, Always apply sunscreen and avoid eczema, psoriasis and more wrinkles. unnecessary sun exposure. Thankfully, employing an evidenceDo not skip this step! Even on overcast based daily skin care routine is a good way days, damaging ultraviolet rays can peneto prevent long-term damage to your skin. trate your skin and wreak havoc, causing It can also be a good way to de-stress and photo-aging and wrinkles. Aim for an SPF of take care of yourself, helping you feel 30 to 50, and reapply every two hours if you calmer and more confident during these are outdoors for an extended period of time. uncertain times. Speak to your dermatologist to see Here are some immediate changes you if a retinoid may be helpful. can make to your skin care routine that Retinoids are vitamin-A-like compounds will help preserve your youth and prevent that, when applied to the skin, increase

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Aug. 22

GOOGLE EARTH FOR GENEALOGY Learn how to use Google Earth to map out your ancestors. In a

free webinar, you can download the app and learn how to use it to track the sites where your family lived. The free session takes place on Sat., Aug. 22 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. To register, visit https://bit.ly/GoogleEarthGenes.

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skin regeneration and collagen production. These changes help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Prescription-strength retinoids like Retin-A (tretinoin) are first-line treatments for wrinkle reduction and prevention, while some are available over-the-counter without a prescription, such as retinol and Differin (adapalene). Find ways to de-stress and improve your overall health. Exercise, yoga and meditation are all effective ways of reducing stress levels and stopping stress from aggravating your skin. It is important to stay informed and to make productive contributions to society, but make sure you find time to unwind and de-

stress at least once a day so that you take care of your physical and mental health as well. Everyone has different skin and distinct skin-care needs, so there truly isn’t a onesize-fits-all approach to developing a skin care routine. A little trial and error may be needed to figure out the best skin care routine that works for you, but these are changes you can make that will help maintain your skin’s integrity and may help make you look and feel better. Andrew Zabala is a fourth-year Pharm.D. student at VCU School of Pharmacy. He majored in biology and minored in astronomy at the University of Virginia. After graduating pharmacy school, he hopes to pursue a career in either ambulatory care pharmacy or psychiatric pharmacy.

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Aug. 23

DIGITAL SCAVENGER HUNT Learn more about the history of Richmond through a digital scav-

enger hunt hosted by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. You will search for the answers to questions online about specific images or facts, and once completed, you will be entered into a gift card drawing. The digital scavenger hunt is open until Aug. 23 and is available at https://bit.ly/RVAScavengerHunt.

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Gary Flowers From page 3 Next, he worked in Chicago as national field director and then vice president of Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition. Later, he moved back to D.C. to be chief executive officer of the Black Leadership Forum, an alliance of 51 organizations. After 23 years away, in 2014 Flowers returned to his hometown to be closer to his now 96-year-old mother and 63-year-old sister, who is blind. Flowers formed a consulting company, started his radio show, and took up the cause of elevating Jackson Ward and its rich history. Much of the neighborhood suffered from neglect and lack of investment be-

tween 1970 and 2000. But Flowers said he’s seen a gradual resurgence of businesses and community spirit. Still, he fears that gentrification could destroy the historic fabric of the Ward.

On the trail of history As the immediate past vice president of the Historic Jackson Ward Association, Flowers wants to keep alive his boyhood memories of the Jackson Ward he roamed, where he knew everyone, even famed civil rights attorney Oliver Hill, whom he called his “second grandfather.” Hill, a prominent black attorney who fought against racial discrimination, helped win the landmark 1954 Brown v. Board of Education case, where the U.S. Supreme Court held that racially-segregat-

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Saturdays

VIRTUAL LUNCH

Get some social interaction every weekend with a virtual lunch on Saturdays from noon to 1 p.m. All you need is an electronic device with a microphone and screen. Register for the free weekly lunch at https://bit.ly/SatVirtualLunch.

Tuesdays

HEART-HEALTHY EATING

Help prevent some heart conditions by choosing foods that are good for you, your blood pressure and your cholesterol level. Join a free webinar with dieticians every Tuesday from 1 to 1:30 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/HeartHealthyWebinar.

AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

ed public schools are unconstitutional. Flowers recalls seeing Hill at Ebenezer Baptist Church when he was a child: “He would pat me on the head.” Today, Flowers’ “Walking the Ward” tours highlight 20 spots, including the historic Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church, founded in 1867 by a former slave; the renovated Hippodrome Theater, which opened in 1914 and hosted stars like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald; the Maggie Walker emporium; and the Leigh Street Armory, now the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. Pointing to the six-lane Interstate 95 on the neighborhood’s north side, he lamented how it displaced families and physically divided Jackson Ward. In many cities, he

said, interstates were deliberately built through minority neighborhoods. Flowers’ tours often end with soul food at Mama J’s Kitchen on First Street in the heart of Jackson Ward, where everybody knows everybody, especially Flowers. “My mama taught his mama,” he boasted, greeting the manager, Lester Johnson. He encouraged everyone to try the fried chicken, classic macaroni and cheese, and slow-cooked collard greens. For Flowers, dining at Mama J’s is coming home to a community he cherishes, where the “ambassador” gives “flowers” to the people. Listen to the Gary Flowers Show at rejoicerichmond.com and download descriptions of his Walking the Ward tours at walkingtheward.com.

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Aug. 16+

MORNING YOGA Get a relaxing start to your Sunday morning with a virtual begin-

ner’s yoga class. The free online class will be held on Sundays, Aug. 16, Aug. 23 and Aug. 30 at 8 a.m. Register at https://bit.ly/SundaysYoga.

Sept. 8

EGYPTIAN ART IN GREECE AND ITALY Learn about the influence Egyptian art and culture had on Greece and Rome with Courtney Morano from the VMFA. The free webi-

nar takes place on Tues., Sept. 8 from 11 to 11:30 a.m., repeated from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Register for either time at https://bit.ly/VMFAEgypt.

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FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

Tools that can help you stop smoking By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, I understand that COVID-19 hits smokers a lot harder than nonsmokers, but quitting at my age is very difficult. Does Medicare offer any coverage that helps beneficiaries quit smoking? —Must Quit Dear Must, It’s true. Smokers and vapers have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 infection, as the coronavirus attacks the lungs. That’s why quitting now is more important than ever before. If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you’ll be happy to know that Medicare Part B covers up to eight face-to-face counseling sessions a year to help you quit smoking. If you have a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, certain smoking-cessation medications are covered too. Here are some other tips that can help you kick the habit:

It’s never too late According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12.5% of Medicare beneficiaries smoke. Many older smokers, like yourself, indicate that they would like to quit, but because of the nicotine, which is extremely addictive, it’s very difficult to do.

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable illness, responsible for an estimated one-fifth of deaths in the United States each year. But research shows that quitting, even after age 65, greatly reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, osteoporosis and many other diseases, including COVID-19. It also helps you breathe easier, smell and taste food better and, not incidentally, saves you quite a bit of money. A $6 pack-aday smoker, for example, saves about $180 after one month without cigarettes, and nearly $2,200 after one year.

Take advantage of counseling Studies have shown that you have a much better chance of quitting if you have help. So, tell your friends, family and coworkers about your plan to quit. Don’t go it alone. Start by contacting your doctor about smoking cessation counseling covered by Medicare, and find out about the prescription antismoking drugs that can help reduce your nicotine craving. You can also get free one-on-one telephone counseling and referrals to local smoking cessation programs at 1-800-QUITNOW. Or call the National Cancer Institute’s free smoking quit line at 1-877-44U-QUIT.

How to quit The first step you need to take is to set a “quit date,” but give yourself a few weeks to get ready. During that time, you may want to start by reducing the number or the strength of cigarettes you smoke to begin weaning yourself. Also check out over-the-counter nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum and lozenges to help curb your cravings (these are not covered by Medicare). Just prior to your scheduled quit day, get rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays in your home, car and place of work, and try to clean up and even spray air freshener. The smell of smoke can be a powerful trigger.

Line up some distractions It’s also important to identify and write down the times and situations you’re most likely to smoke and make a list of things you can do to replace it or distract yourself. Some helpful suggestions when the smoking urge arises are to call a friend or

one of the free quit lines; keep your mouth occupied with some sugar-free gum, sunflower seeds, carrots, fruit or hard candy; go for a walk; read a magazine; listen to music; or take a hot bath. The intense urge to smoke lasts about three to five minutes, so do what you can to wait it out. It’s also wise to avoid drinking alcohol and to steer clear of other smokers while you’re trying to quit. Both can trigger powerful urges to smoke. For more tips on how to quit — including managing your cravings, withdrawal symptoms and what to do if you relapse — visit 60plus.SmokeFree.gov. There are also a variety of helpful quit smoking apps you can download, like SmokeFreeApp.com and QuitGenius.com. Send questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Ongoing

VIRTUAL ALZHEIMER’S SCREENINGS

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free screenings to detect early memory problems that could indicate Alzheimer’s disease. You can schedule a videoconference appointment any Monday or Wednesday by calling 1-866-232-8484.

Fitness & Health | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 17

AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

The many health benefits of chamomile About a million cups of chamomile tea are served every single day. The antioxidant compounds in chamomile, including apigenin, have been proven useful for a variety of issues that might concern you. Here are some of the unexpected benefits of chamomile that you may not know of:

Arthritis relief You might have heard about benefits from essential oil of frankincense for knee pain or other “itis” issues because the antiinflammatory herb has been long associated with strong evidence of helping reduce joint inflammation caused by osteoarthritis

and rheumatoid arthritis. But it’s rather unexpected to see essential oil of chamomile studied for knee pain. In a randomized controlled clinical trial published in Complimentary Therapies in Clinical Practice, researchers applied chamomile oil topically to the knee. Patients who applied chamomile needed lower doses of their pain medicine. You could try adding drops to massage oil or some other pain-relieving cream or gel. Chamomile supplements and teas are available as well for oral consumption. Chamomile is known to induce drowsiness.

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Sept. 8

IMPROVE YOUR NETWORKING Bolster your networking skills with a free webinar on communica-

tion tips to further your career. Learn about “elevator pitches,” starting conversations and being memorable. Register for the webinar on Tues., Sept. 8 from 9 to 10 p.m. at https://bit.ly/TalkNetworking.

Ongoing

RESUME WRITING WORKSHOP Get tips on creating or updating your resume. This free webinar is offered every Wednesday from 2 to 3 p.m. Sign up for a session

at https://bit.ly/VirtualResumeWriting.

ation in the mouth. The term for the pain is Having thick or “sticky” blood is bad for oral mucositis (OM). Chamomile can help with these oral lesions. you. Doctors seek to thin the Sometimes a person isn’t blood in order to prevent able to speak after a chemo strokes and heart attacks. Wartreatment, and they cannot tell farin is the most popular preyou of this pain. I worked in scribed anti-coagulant. nursing home settings and saw There are many plant-dethis at times. So, if you’re a carerived supplements that work giver, nurse or family member, similarly to warfarin, as well as please be mindful of non-verbal foods with anti-platelet activity. cues, so you can determine if But chamomile wouldn’t norsomeone is dealing with OM. mally be something you think DEAR Of the herbal and medicinal of for blood health. Yet, it PHARMACIST oral rinses tested in a recent has unexpected blood-thinning By Suzy Cohen study, researchers concluded properties. that certain ones were the most For that reason, I advise caution or avoidance of this herb if you are al- effective. Chamomile, honey, curcumin or ready taking warfarin (or other thinners) Benzydamine-containing mouthwashes because there will be an exacerbation of the were found to be the most effective. You can make your own soothing mouth blood-thinning. Gum bleeding might be the first sign of additive anti-platelet activity in rinse using the above ingredients, gargle with a tea, or simply dab the essential oil on your body. Easy bruising is another sign. the sores. This information is opinion only. It is not Mouth pain Have you ever burned your tongue or intended to treat, cure or diagnose your conmouth on hot coffee or a super-hot pizza? dition. Consult with your doctor before using Fortunately, if you burn your mouth it any new drug or supplement. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist heals right away, within a week or so. But if you are receiving chemotherapy, and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmathere is a type of mouth pain that is unbear- cist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. able. It can occur with high dose local radi- To contact her, visit suzycohen.com.

Blood thinning

www.FiftyPlusRichmond.com | Fitness & Health

FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

Mexican zucchini soup is great for summer By Mee McCormick Years ago, my idea of home cooking was purchasing mainly processed foods and serving them along with salads and fruits, thinking I was cooking healthy for my family. Now I know that wasn’t the case. With some detective work, I discovered that I had many food allergies and sensitivities, which led me to master allergyfriendly cooking. I’m happy to say that a year after taking my kitchen back, I have found digestive relief. Soup is a great way to start eating healthier because you can modify soups into powerhouse meals. I add nuts, mushrooms, probiotic miso pastes and bone broths. This soup is a total showstopper — it’s rich and creamy, and kids love it. I use zucchini, but any summertime squash will work.

In fact, this soup is super adaptable for any food sensitivity or health need, with a little ingenuity. I love to top this soup with a dollop of cashew sour cream (see my book My Pinewood Kitchen for that recipe), a drop of sriracha sauce and a sprig of cilantro.

Summertime Mexican Zucchini Soup Serves 6 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or 1 tablespoon ghee ½ onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, peeled and pressed or crushed 4 medium zucchinis with the skin on, sliced into medium rounds 3 small red potatoes with skin, halved ¼ cup raw unsalted cashews or pumpkin seeds

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Aug. 18+

VIRTUAL GARDEN TALKS Get garden advice from the University of Minnesota master gar-

2 tablespoons ground cumin 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon ground coriander ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 6 cups vegetable broth 4 shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and sliced 1 heaping tablespoon miso 1 cup fresh cilantro (optional) Directions: Heat the oil or ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat, add the onion, and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and zucchini. Add the potatoes, cashews or pumpkin seeds, cumin, chili powder, coriander and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the broth and mushrooms, and

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Aug. 18

about gardening to attract birds. To register for one or both of the webinars from 7 to 8 p.m., visit https://bit.ly/GardenTalkTuesdays.

TRAVEL AND DEMENTIA CARE

Do you care for someone with dementia? Even during a pandemic, travel may be necessary. Learn how to determine what is essential, and alternatives to leaving home with a free webinar on Tues., Aug. 18 from 2 to 3 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/DementiaTravel.

deners with virtual lectures. On Tues., Aug. 18 they will discuss growing nightscented and night-blooming plants, and the lecture on Tues., Aug. 25 will be

cover with a lid. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Cool the soup for 10 minutes. Transfer to a blender or food processor. Add the miso paste and cilantro (if using), and blend until smooth and creamy. Pour the blended mixture into the saucepan, and stir over medium-high heat until hot. [Ed. note: It’s delicious served hot or cold. We tried it!] Mee McCormick was raised in Northern Appalachia. She owns a farm and restaurant in rural Tennessee called Pinewood Kitchen and Mercantile. This recipe is from her second book, My Pinewood Kitchen: A Southern Culinary Cure. It’s available on Amazon, where it has a 5-star rating, for around $20.

Aug. 19

DIGGING DRIP IRRIGATION

Drip irrigation can help keep the plants in your garden healthy, while also saving the time and effort it takes to hand water them. Learn how to install or upgrade your own drip irrigation with a free webinar on Wed., Aug. 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/DripIrrigationVirtual.

Are You A+ Veteran? Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center is a Long-Term Care & Short-Term Rehab Facility that opened in January 2008. This facility was built speciﬁcally for our Virginia Veterans. Located conveniently on the campus of the McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, this state-of-the-art facility is owned and operated by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services.

Fitness & Health | Subscribe for half-price. See p. 17

AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

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FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

www.FiftyPlusRichmond.com

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r of Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging

Executive Director’s Message Dr. Thelma Bland Watson Executive Director, Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging Opportunities for Social Connections In this issue of Engage at Any Age, there is attention to Medicare, Social Security and other benefits that help older adults who need various assistance with healthcare, finances and general support. You will also find a very interesting and inspiring article about a personal connection with a grandmother that has been written by a staff member at Senior Connections. It is wonderful to reflect on these positive opportunities as we confront today’s challenges, including the threat of social isolation and various types of fraud and scams. It has been very apparent to us during the past few months that the services offered by Senior Connections and our many community partners are critical to helping older adults connect with resources that help prevent and address the challenges of social isolation. This is the mission of Senior Connections, “to empower seniors to live with dignity and choice.” This mission is carried out by providing a range of home and community services that make it easier for older adults and caregivers to access resources, improve health, support increased mobility and enhance quality of life. We can support social connections by promoting fundraising for critical services (Empty Plate Campaign), providing access to nutrition and activities, and assuring support throughout the year with connection to resources. During this period of responding to COVID-19, we extend special thanks to all who have contributed to this year’s Empty Plate Campaign and have made donations of food, personal care equipment and other items. We thank you very much for your outstanding support. For the past 17 years, the Richmond Metropolitan Region has generously supported our Empty Plate Campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to generate funds to fill the “empty plates” of older adults and caregivers with meals, rides,

home care, medications, information, volunteer support and other opportunities. The campaign also provides the opportunity to recognize community leaders who improve the quality of life for older adults through connections and support. Recipients of this year’s awards include three individuals who have helped thousands of older adults connect with community resources while providing education and advocacy. Mrs. Marilyn Branch-Mitchell, Dr. Ellen Netting and Mrs. Lynn Seward were selected for the 2020 Phoebe and Frank Hall Award for Humanitarian Service to Older Virginians. Mrs. Branch-Mitchell serves as Human Resources Director for Senior Connections and has spent her career influencing service delivery, volunteerism and diversity that has positively impacted older and caregivers. Dr. Netting, retired professor of social work at VCU, has provided education and volunteer support to help older Virginians enjoy enhanced quality of life. Mrs. Seward has made significant contributions to advance adult care services and Alzheimer’s research. These award recipients will be recognized as part of this year’s Empty Plate Campaign. We are grateful to continue the Campaign with a 50th Anniversary Video and fundraising opportunities to help ensure the future of vital programs for older adults and caregivers with a focus on support needed due to COVID-19. Thanks to all of the supporters of our 2020 Empty Plate Campaign. We are still accepting contributions to fill more “empty plates.” Contributions may be made on our Website (seniorconnections-va.org) or sent to us at 24 East Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23219. We appreciate your consideration of a gift to this year’s campaign. Best wishes and thank you,

Thelma Bland Watson

Five Reasons to Use Your “my Social Security” Account By Jacqueline Weisgarber Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Richmond, Virginia There are countless reasons why you can benefit from using your personal my Social Security account. Here are five that highlight why opening an account today can help you and the people you love:

work history with your personal my Social Security account? This allows you to verify if your employers reported your earnings to us correctly. This is very important. Accurate wage reporting will ensure you get the benefits you earned when you begin receiving benefits.

Planning for your Future Saving you time There’s no need to leave your home when using the features of my Social Security. You may think you need to speak with a Social Security representative to check your application status, set up or change direct deposit, or request a replacement Social Security card. All you have to do is log in or create an account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.

Retirement planning is essential for a secure future. The Retirement Calculator lets you enter the age or date when you expect to begin receiving benefits to generate an estimated benefit amount. If you enter your estimated future salary amount, that will be included when calculating the estimated benefit amount. You can also view your estimated disability benefit on the Estimate Benefits page.

Security

Control

When you open an account, it prevents someone else from possibly creating an account in your name. And we use the twostep authentication process to verify you are the one logging in to your account. Your personal information is very important to us. You can access your personal information safely and securely using my Social Security.

A personal my Social Security account gives you the control to conduct your Social Security business wherever and whenever you want without needing to speak with a representative. You can check the status of your claim, get an instant proof of benefits letter or copy of your SSA-1099, and more. And people in most states can request a replacement Social Security card. Check out ssa.gov/myaccount and put yourself in control.

Reassurance Did you know you can see your entire

Ride Connection Our goal at Ride Connection is to help older adults and persons with disabilities have knowledge about, and access to, transportation for medical and non-medical needs to help them age in place at home and live a healthy and socially-connected life. Adults age 60 and over (and adults under age 60 receiving SSA disability benefits) are eligible for service. Ride Connection: • Provides information on mobility planning, education and referrals. • Provides transportation to a limited number of medical appointments each month. • Provides assistance with accessing public transportation.

For more information, please contact the Ride Connection Hotline at (804) 672-4495.

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Senior Connections, CAAA

Subscribe for half-price. See p. 17

Getting Ready for Medicare Open

Enrollment Period Each year during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period (OEP) — October 15 to December 7 — you can join, switch or drop your Medicare coverage. In addition, you can choose to make changes to your Medicare prescription drug (Part D) or Medicare Advantage coverage for the coming year. It is important for Medicare beneficiaries to utilize this opportunity to review your coverage for the coming year, even if you like your current plan, because plans and their prices can change from year to year. When reviewing plans, you want to verify your prescription drug coverage and costs as well as your provider coverage for the coming year. Last year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) launched a redesigned version of the Medicare Plan Finder, which is an online tool that allows you to compare costs and benefits associated with various Part D and Medicare Advantage plans. In order to complete a personalized comparison, you now need to create an account on the website medicare.gov. To

create your account, you will need to have the following information ready: Medicare number Last name Date of birth Current address Part A or B coverage start date Once you have entered this information, you will be prompted to create a username and password that can then be used each time you want to access the Plan Finder tool. If you have questions about creating your account, or if you would like assistance comparing plans, the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) has counselors available to assist you over the phone or by email. VICAP counselors provide Medicare beneficiaries free and unbiased assistance year-round, but take appointments for OEP beginning in October. We encourage anyone looking for assistance during OEP to call VICAP in September as appointments are limited. You can contact the VICAP office at Senior Connections by phone at (804) 343-3014 or by email at vicap@youraaa.org.

AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) What is it? The Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) is part of a national network of programs that offers FREE, unbiased, confidential counseling and assistance for people with Medicare.

Counseling Topics • Medicare • Medicare Part D • Medicare Advantage Plans • Medigap • Duals Special Needs Plans (D-SNP’s) • Long-Term Care Insurance Counselors can also help with healthcare appeals, denials, and identifying those eligible for low-income subsidies.

and compare benefits, assist with filing for benefits based on income and resources, and inform you of your rights.

Find a Plan for You VICAP counselors can help all Medicare beneficiaries, including those with disabilities and younger than 65, explore options that best meet their needs. Counselors will help you compare the quality of care and services given by health and prescription drug plans available in your area. Contact VICAP at Senior Connections VICAP Intake Line: (804) 343-3014 Email: vicap@youraaa.org

Counselors VICAP counselors are not licensed to sell insurance. Counselors are trained and certified to help you understand

Protect Your Medicare Card If you have Medicare, you can protect your identity and help prevent healthcare fraud by guarding your Medicare card like you would a credit card. Identity theft from stolen Medicare numbers is becoming more common. Medicare helped by removing Social Security numbers from Medicare cards and replacing them with a new, unique number for each person with Medicare. This decreases your vulnerability to identity theft.

Medicare vs. Medicaid What’s the Diﬀerence?

Tips for Protecting Yourself Here are some important steps you can take to protect yourself from the identity theft that can lead to healthcare fraud: Don’t share or confirm your Medicare or Social Security number with anyone who contacts you by telephone, email or in person, unless you’ve given them permission in advance. Medicare will NEVER contact you (unless you ask them to) to ask for your Medicare number or other personal information or to send you a new card. Medicare

MEDICAID

already has your information. Don’t ever let anyone borrow or pay to use your Medicare number. Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) to be sure you and Medicare are only being charged for actual items and services received. If someone calls you and asks for your Medicare number or other personal information, hang up and call your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP). [See page B-3.]

MEDICARE

How can I replace my Medicare card? If you need to replace your card because it’s damaged or lost, sign in to your MyMedicare.gov account to print an official copy of your Medicare card. If you don’t have an account, visit MyMedicare.gov to create one.0 If you need to replace your card because you think that someone else is using your number, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1877-486-2048.

“Medicare And You” Handbook

Who Administers It?

A federal-state program that varies from state to state. It is run by state and local governments within federal guidelines.

The federal government, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

What Is It?

Medicaid is an assistance program.

Medicare is an insurance program.

Patients usually pay no part of costs for covered medical expenses. A small co-pay is sometimes required.

Medical bills are paid from trusts which those covered paid into. Patients pay part of costs through deductibles for hospital and other costs. Small monthly premiums are required for non-hospital coverage.

When should I get it?

It serves people over 65 primarily, whatever their income; and serves younger disabled people and dialysis patients.

Late September. You can also sign up to get this handbook electronically at MyMedicare.gov. You won’t get a printed copy if you choose to get it electronically.

How Much Does It Cost?

It serves low-income people of every age.

Who Does It Serve?

What is it? The “Medicare & You” handbook is mailed to all Medicare households each fall. It includes a summary of Medicare benefits, rights and protections; lists of available health and drug plans; and answers to frequently asked questions about Medicare.

Who sends it? Medicare

What should I do if I get this handbook? Keep the handbook as a reference guide. If you want to, you can sign up to get future handbooks electronically at medicare.gov/ gopaperless.

Senior Connections, CAAA

FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

www.FiftyPlusRichmond.com

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Protect Yourself and Loved Ones from Fraud Senior Medicare Patrols (SMPs) are grant-funded projects established to empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers to prevent, detect and report healthcare fraud, errors and abuse.

SMP Mission SMPs are grant-funded projects of the federal U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL). Their work is in three main areas: Conduct Outreach and Education. SMPs give presentations to groups, exhibit at events, and work one-on-one with Medicare beneficiaries. Engage Volunteers. Protecting older persons’ health, finances and medical identity while saving precious Medicare dollars is a cause that attracts civicminded Americans. Receive Beneficiary Complaints. When Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers and family members bring their complaints to an SMP, the SMP makes a determination about whether or not fraud, errors,or abuse is suspected. When fraud or abuse is suspected, they make referrals to the appropriate state and federal agencies

Medicare Fraud SMPs play a unique role in the fight against Medicare fraud, errors and abuse. SMP volunteers and staff serve as “eyes and ears” in their communities, educating beneficiaries to be the first line of defense. Medicare is complicated. What may seem like an error to the beneficiary may simply be the result of a misunderstanding about benefits. It may also be abuse, which involves billing Medicare for serv-

ices that are not covered or are not correctly coded. In this case, the provider has not knowingly and intentionally misrepresented the facts to obtain payment. Medicare fraud assumes criminal intent. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) defines fraud as “an intentional deception or misrepresentation that the individual knows to be false or does not believe to be true,” and that is made “knowing that the deception could result in some unauthorized benefit to himself or herself or some other person.” Some common examples of suspected Medicare fraud or abuse are: Billing for services or supplies that were not provided Providing unsolicited supplies to beneficiaries Misrepresenting a diagnosis, a beneficiary’s identity, the service provided, or other facts to justify payment Prescribing or providing excessive or unnecessary tests and services Violating the participating provider agreement with Medicare by refusing to bill Medicare for covered services or items and billing the beneficiary instead Offering or receiving a kickback (bribe) in exchange for a beneficiary’s Medicare number Requesting Medicare numbers at an educational presentation or in an unsolicited phone call Routinely waiving co-insurance or deductibles [Note: Waivers are only allowed on a case-by-case basis where there is financial hardship, not as an incentive to attract business.]

Report Fraud If you suspect Medicare fraud, errors or abuse, address it immediately by tak-

How to Contact the Centers for Medicare & Medicare Services (CMS) to Request Accessible Format Materials CMS provides free auxiliary aids and services, including information in accessible formats like Braille, large print, data/audio files, relay services and TTY communications. If you request information in an accessible format from CMS, you won’t be disadvantaged by any additional time necessary to provide it. This means you will get extra time to take any action if there’s a delay in fulfilling your request. To request Medicare or Marketplace information in an accessible format you can: • Visit the website: Medicare.gov • For Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), TTY: 1-877-486-2048. • For the Health Insurance Marketplace, call 1-800-318-2596, TTY: 1-855-889-4325.

• Email altformatrequest@cms.hhs.gov • Send a fax: 1-844-530-3676 • Send a letter to: Attn: Customer Accessibility Resource Staff Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Offices of Hearings and Inquiries (OHI) 7500 Security Boulevard, Mail Stop S113-25 Baltimore, MD 21244-1850 Your request should include your name, phone number, type of information you need (if known) and the mailing address where we should send the materials. We may contact you for additional information.

ing these steps: Rule out error: If you have questions about information on yours or your loved one’s Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), call the provider or plan and ask for an explanation. Get help from your SMP: If you are not comfortable calling the provider or plan, or if you are not satisfied with their response, your local SMP can help you: Identify and report fraud schemes and deceptive healthcare practices, such as illegal marketing or billing for services that were never provided. Refer complaints of potential fraud and abuse to the appropriate entity, who can intervene. For example: • HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) - 1-800-447-8477 • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) – 1-800-MEDICARE • State attorneys general – Virginia State Attorney General’s Office: 1-800723-1615 • Local law enforcement – Virginia State Police: 804-674-2000 • State Medicaid Fraud Control Units (MFCU) – 1-855-820-1719

How to contact your SMP Virginia SMP Toll-Free Number: 1-800-938-8885

If you live outside of Virginia, use the SMP Locator on the SMP website (below) to select your state and receive SMP contact information, or call the nationwide toll-free number: 1-877-808-2468. (Callers receive information about the SMP program and are connected to the SMP in their state if they need individual assistance.)

National Mailing Address: SMP National Resource Cente Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging 3840 W. 9th Street Waterloo, Iowa 50702 Website: https://www.smpresource.org The information in this article was obtained from the Senior Medical Patrol (SMP) website. Please visit their website or call the Virginia SMP for additional information.

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Want to Hear a Great Story? Talk to an Older Adult! By Lee Owens For more than two decades earlier in my life, both summer vacation and Christmas vacation involved flying halfway across the country from my hometown of Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Richmond, Virginia in order to visit my grandparents. Upon our arrival in Richmond, my grandmother Jane would regale me and my two sisters with stories about the way things were during â&#x20AC;&#x153;the old days.â&#x20AC;? As the years went by, I gained a greater appreciation for my grandmotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stories which were interesting, insightful and sometimes humorous. When I made a permanent move to Richmond from Sioux Falls in 2005, I was able to hear even more of her stories when I visited her frequently to help her with chores and/or just to chat. Unfortunately, my grandmother Jane passed away in 2010. Upon her passing, I knew that I would miss her telling me stories from times past with her welcoming smile and thick Southern accent. However, it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until this year (10 years after her death) that my uncle forwarded me a story about my grandmother Jane of which I am very proud, especially given recent societal events. The story that my uncle forwarded me was about the passion my grandmother, a white woman, had for furthering the education of African American students in Richmond as a teacher in segregated

African American schools. I learned from my uncle that she insisted on teaching in the African American segregated schools in Richmond because they needed her help the most. My grandmother Jane was deeply trou-

her, I also learned that she kept in touch with some of her students after they had exited her classroom. In fact, she and my grandfather sent some of these students to college, and even paid their college expenses!

Lee Owens

Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandmother, Jane Outen

bled by the inequalities faced by African American schoolchildren in Richmond during her teaching tenure. Not only did she campaign to reduce this problem, she also personally took steps to rectify it. My grandmother would go to yard sales and buy the necessary materials that she used to teach her African American students at her own personal expense. Also, as if I could not be more proud of

Hearing this wonderful story about my dear grandmother Jane inspired me to reflect on what this means for us as a society today. Given the instances of racial injustice that we have born witness to in the news during the last few weeks, my grandmotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story is one that can help set us on a proverbial road to restoration and healing. In addition, her story also should give us pause to ask this important question:

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;What stories of achievement, inspiration and hope do the senior adults in our lives have to tell?â&#x20AC;? If we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop to ask this question, we may miss out on stories of heroism on the battlefield, incredible athletic achievements, innovative entrepreneurship, or, like the case with my grandmother Jane, stories of ordinary individuals who greatly impacted and improved the lives of those in their communities. Think about the senior adults in your lives. They could be parents, grandparents, co-workers or next-door neighbors. I would urge everyone to take time to chat and listen to the stories and memories that these seniors have to tell. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter if you have to travel halfway across the country (like me) or if you just have to travel halfway down the street, you may be surprised and inspired by what they have to say. Lee Owens works for Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, where he is proud to be part of its mission to improve the lives of seniors. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Master in Business Administration from Strayer University. In his spare time, Lee enjoys going on dates with his wife, Christine, playing with his two sons, Lee (4) and Cooper (2), and walking the family dog, Peri. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact him at (804) 343-3050.

FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

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Money Law &

NEW HABITS FOR NEW TIMES The pandemic offers the opportunity to cut costs now and change our spending habits long term. Instead of taking a big vacation, invest what you would have spent BOND-LIKE STOCKS Worried about stock market volatility? Take a look at preferred stocks, whose dividends generally offer a slow but steady income stream

How to make better financial decisions By Jamie Letcher As the coronavirus pandemic continues to challenge every aspect of our lives — work, family, health and money — it is imperative we all take a gut check on any of our portfolio exposed to the wild rides of the financial markets. A recap is important: According to JP Morgan’s Q2 2020 Guide to the Markets, the S&P 500 index hit its last historical high on Feb. 19, 2020. It then promptly plummeted over the next four weeks, dropping 34%. That epic plunge ended the longest bull-run in stock market history on March 12, a few days after its 11th anniversary. Since March 23, the S&P 500 index has had a furious, if uneven, rally, recovering nearly all of its 2020 losses. Some might suggest we are now out of the woods, but I would say, “Not by a long shot.” I encourage all investors to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Remember, the S&P 500 index dropped 49% from 2000 to 2002 and 57% from 2007 to 2009. Will the economic challenges created by this crisis be less? That history is yet to be written. As an investor, I’ve now lived through everything from the crash of 1987 to today. As an adviser for 14 years, I’ve helped

clients navigate through both the Great Recession and today’s pandemic crisis. What I have seen and felt is the emotional tug our investments have on our decision-making and stress levels. Some people handle it better than others. Luckily, there is an entire school of academic thought — Behavioral Finance — that equips us with observations to ease our anxiety and help us make better decisions during difficult times. Using the thinking behind Behavioral Finance, here are some lessons investors could take away right about now:

It is only a loss if you sell it The urge to sell everything during panic moments is real — something I’ve seen firsthand with my own clients during the 2008 downturn. Now consider the following scenario: A couple lives in a $500,000 house, and they have a $500,000 retirement portfolio. A recession hits, and the values of their home and their portfolio fall to $350,000 each. Someone knocks on the door and makes an offer to buy the couple’s house for $350,000. It’s not necessarily an unreasonable offer in the current market, but the couple find it easy to turn down the offer.

Why? Because they trust that eventually the value will return. Yet that same couple may at the same moment panic and put all of their retirement account into a cash equivalent. How do we reconcile these two decisions? It is the emotions of the market. I suggest to you to look at your retirement nest egg as your house. It is only a loss if you sell it. Markets go up and down, but over the long run, they have always gone up.

Stocks are on sale right now Another method for quelling your anxiety due to a volatile market is asking yourself, “When is the best time to buy a house, or anything we may value (e.g., shares of stocks)?” We all know intuitively: when it’s on sale. But I have seldom seen investors who put this common-sense approach to practice in the investing world. I suggest to investors during times of panic, in buying into the falling market, you are taking advantage of things being on sale. Investors can, if they choose to, go further and shift funds from bonds to stocks during down markets. This increases risk, and it has to be carefully considered before doing so, but it is a compelling way of taking advantage of

a crisis. A financial professional can help you decide if this is the right step for you. These are the times that test our patience. Recoveries can be entirely unpredictable and uneven, and trying to time a low point (or a high point) is a fool’s errand. History has shown us that the markets will eventually rebound; cyclicality is a feature of the markets, not a bug. But if it turns out that you don’t have the stomach for the uncertainty — and that’s okay — rather than pulling out of the markets altogether, consider investing in principal-protected instruments like annuities, which are less susceptible to the volatile swings. At the end of the day, though money and emotions may always be intertwined, you always have control over how you react. Letcher, CRPC, is a financial adviser at CUNA Brokerage Services. The opinions expressed are his and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Kiplinger, CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. or its management. This article is provided for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as investment advice. © 2020 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Where to find financial help in hard times By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any financial assistance programs you can refer me to? The coronavirus pandemic has cost me my parttime retirement job and has shrunk my measly IRA account. Needy Retiree Dear Needy, Absolutely! In addition to the $1,200 federal coronavirus stimulus check that was distributed in April and May, there are many other financial-assistance programs (both public and private) that can help struggling retirees, as well as give relief to family members who help provide financial support for their loved ones. To find out what types of assistance you may be eligible for, just go to BenefitsCheckUp.org — a free, confidential web tool designed for adults 55 and older and their families. It will help you locate

federal, state and private benefits programs that can assist with paying for food, medications, utilities, healthcare, housing and other needs. This site, created by the National Council on Aging, contains more than 2,500 programs across the country. To identify benefits, you’ll first need to fill out an online questionnaire that asks a series of questions like your date of birth, ZIP code, expenses, income, assets, veteran status, the medications you take and a few other factors. It takes about 15 minutes. Once completed, you’ll get a report detailing all the programs and services you may qualify for, along with detailed information on how to apply. Some programs can be applied for online, some have downloadable application forms that you can print and mail, and some require that you contact the pro-

gram’s administrative office directly (they provide the necessary contact information). If you don’t have internet access, you can also get help in-person at any of the 84 Benefit Enrollment Centers located throughout the U.S. Call 888-268-6706 or visit NCOA.org/centerforbenefits/becs to locate a center near you. Some centers also offer assistance over the phone.

Types of benefits Depending on your income level and where you live, here are some benefits you may be eligible for: Food assistance: Programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help pay for groceries. The average SNAP benefit for 60-and-older households is around $125 per month. Other programs that may be available include the Emergency Food Assistance

Program, Commodity Supplemental Food Program and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Healthcare: Medicaid and Medicare savings programs can help or completely pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs. And there are special Medicaid waiver programs that provide in-home care and assistance too. Prescription drugs: There are hundreds of programs offered through pharmaceutical companies, government agencies and charitable organizations that help lower or eliminate prescription drug costs, including the federal low-income subsidy known as “Extra Help” that pays premiums, deductibles and prescription copayments for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. Utility assistance: There’s the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program See FINANCIAL HELP, page 14

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AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

A big chance to change spending habits By Josh Monroe No matter how much we earn, the amount we spend often impacts more of a person’s future financial success than their income, savings or investment returns. Try as we might, cutting back our spending is never easy. Until now. The current pandemic has impacted all of us. Nearly everyone I’ve spoken with is spending much less money than they were three months ago. This forced spending reduction may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-evaluate our spending habits, invest more and reshuffle the financial deck. Here are some recommendations on how to make at least some of these spending cuts permanent and bolster your finances:

Determine a new monthly budget Many people are likely saving $200 month or more from less car maintenance, lower gasoline prices, no parking fees or dry cleaning, and less dining out at restaurants.

Financial help From page 13 (LIHEAP), as well as local utility companies and charitable organizations that provide assistance in lowering home heating and cooling costs.

Since working from home the past few months, I’ve been sweeping over to savings the money I would have ordinarily spent buying lunch a few days a week and getting gas to drive to my office. You may also consider paying down your mortgage or other debts with this surplus each month. If you are currently retired and spending less, this is a great opportunity to build up your cash reserves. Take a few minutes to determine how much less you are spending now, and see if there are opportunities to convert any short-term spending reductions into longterm gains.

Use a short-term cash surplus wisely Even if some savings are temporary, it’s the perfect time to sweep extra cash over to a savings account, fund a Health Savings Account, an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), Roth IRA or a 529 college edSupplemental Security Income (SSI): Administered by the Social Security Administration, SSI provides monthly payments to very low-income persons 65 and older, as well as to those who are blind or disabled. For 2020, SSI is paying up to $783 per month for a single person and up

ucation savings plan for your children or grandchildren. It can also be used to contribute to food banks and other charitable organizations to meet the needs of those most directly impacted by coronavirus. On the other hand, you can start some positive habits now and carry them into the future, such as increasing the contribution rate into your 401(k) plan. For example, someone earning $100,000 annually who has been contributing 8% of their income to a 401(k) may be able to bump up that contribution to 10%. The extra $2,000 annual contribution, growing over several years, will likely provide you with a significant increase in your retirement account.

Turn that canceled vacation into an investment If you have a pile of cash tucked away for a major trip that’s been canceled, consider the benefits of investing that money. For example, if a couple had planned to to $1,175 for couples. In addition to these programs, there are numerous other benefits your nearest Benefits Enrollment Center can help you locate, such as HUD housing, home weatherization assistance, tax relief, veteran’s benefits, senior transportation, respite care, free legal as-

spend $5,000 or more on a romantic getaway to Europe or a family trip to a theme park, they may now be choosing a less costly vacation that makes it easier to adhere to health and safety guidelines. Others may be canceling these trips and staying at home until new infections in their state or county continue to recede. If you have money that you now won’t be spending for at least three years, consider investing it in a balanced portfolio in a brokerage account. If you’ll need the money sooner, consider opening a highyield savings account with an online bank.

Think twice about a new car Some people who had planned to buy a new car may be re-evaluating the need to drive as much once the economy recovers. If working from home is now a permanent option for one or more persons in the household, it may make more sense to buy See SPENDING HABITS, page 15

sistance, job training and employment and debt counseling. Send questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

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Preferred stocks are worth a closer look Many investors don’t fully understand preferred stock is “cumulative,” then prethe advantages and disadvantages of buy- ferred stockholders would receive their dividends in arrears before ing preferred stocks. Preany dividends can be paid to ferred stock is really a hybrid common stockholders. security more similar to a bond than to a common stock. Preferred stock generally The primary advantage is has no specific end date, unlike consistent high income with all bond issues. However, preless downside risk than comferred stock generally does mon stocks. The primary dishave “callable” provisions, advantage is that when interwhich allows the board of direcest rates increase significantly, tors of the company to purthe value of preferred stocks chase outstanding preferred THE SAVINGS decrease. stock at par value after a set Preferred shareholders have GAME date. However, this provision priority over common stock- By Elliot Raphaelson would only be an option if interholders when it comes to diviest rates decrease after the inidends, which generate a higher yield than tial issue of the stock. common stock dividends. Most preferred In the case of liquidation, a preferred stocks have a fixed rate, although some are stockholder’s claim is greater than comvariable, in which the rate is based on a mon stockholders but subordinate to benchmark such as LIBOR. bondholders. Dividends can be paid monthly or quarSome preferred stock is convertible to a terly. Generally, dividends on common specific number of shares of common stock can’t be paid until dividends are paid stock under certain circumstances. Natuto the shareholders of preferred stock. If a rally, this feature is attractive when the

Spending habits From page 14 a used car and save thousands of dollars, or hold off on a purchase for a few more

years. Less mileage on your car now means it could run a lot longer.

Keep those good habits going Everyone needs to save for something.

common stock price increases. However, most issues are not convertible.

My recommendation would be an invest-

ment in one of the large diversified popular ETF’s such as PFF, First Trust Preferred Securities and Income (FPE), or VanEck Vectors Preferred Securities ex Financials (PFXF). Yields are stable, currently over 5%, and you can re-invest the dividend income back into the funds. You can compare other preferred ETFs at Morningstar. According to the Wall Street Journal, over the last 10 years, preferred stocks underperformed the S&P 500 index and long-term bonds (S&P: 13.52%; preferred stock: 7.29%; long-term bonds: 7.7%). However, preferred stocks were much less volatile than common stocks and longterm bonds over that 10-year period. In general, both preferred stocks and longterm bonds have a low correlation to the stock market indexes. It’s likely that, as long as major banks remain stable financially, a moderate investment in preferred stock ETFs will provide some stability in your portfolio. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2020 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Now we all have the opportunity to create a “new normal” and form new spending and savings habits. A few thoughtful moves now can make a big impact. Josh Monroe, CFP®, is a Chartered Fi-

For income more than growth In general, investors should look at preferred stock with the objective of high income, not capital growth. For example, currently the largest preferred stock ETF, iShares Preferred and Income Securities ETF (PFF), has a trailing 12-month yield of 5.61% and an expense ration of 0.46%. Regarding capital growth, even if a company increases its earnings dramatically, it will not have a significant effect on the net asset value of a preferred stock fund unless the preferred is convertible. Investors who are interested in capital growth should be primarily investing in common stock equities, not preferred stock. For investors who have established a specific allocation to fixed income, and are interested in high income, they can consider preferred stock for part of that allocation.

Recommended funds

AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

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Travel Leisure &

Monterey’s famous aquarium attracts international tourists. Story continues on page 18.

Drawn to Monterey’s heritage, sea life mate and a mix of outdoor recreation, seafood restaurants and rich history. For centuries, the Rumsien Native Americans lived on the Pacific Coast, where they fished for sardines, anchovies and rockfish, crafted abalone-decorated baskets, and thrived on local plants and wildlife. That is, until the Spanish arrived with livestock and new diseases. By 1770, Franciscan Father Junipero Serra established the Mission de San Carlos Borromeo de Monterey, the second mission in the Spanish colonial province called Alta California. For a quarter century, Monterey was the region’s capital. By the mid-1800s, the town was California’s main port. That’s when an entrepreneur named David Jack sold some cheese that some say he stole from area Franciscan friars. At some point, it became known as Monterey Jack cheese, another bragging point.

PHOTO BY SEEMONTEREY.COM

By Glenda C. Booth [Editor’s Note: Given the worldwide reach of the coronavirus and the fact that COVID19 cases in California and elsewhere are still rising, this is not the time to travel there (or possibly anywhere) for enjoyment. Statewide, many parks and beaches are temporarily closed or have very limited access. Please enjoy this article as armchair entertainment and for planning your future travel in healthier times.] For Monterey, California, a tiny silver fish has brought both fame and infamy. In the first half of the 20th century, the pungent scent of sardines wafted from the town’s booming canneries and powered its economy, prompting town leaders to trumpet Monterey as “the sardine capital of the world.” Nobel Prize-winning fiction writer John Steinbeck made Monterey’s booming fish processors famous in his 1945 novella Cannery Row, and the town of olfactory renown lured all kinds of characters to cannery jobs — and dicey diversions. Today, Cannery Row has been repurposed with trendy shops, restaurants and one of the country’s finest aquariums. Located on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on California’s central coast, Monterey has a balmy Mediterranean cli-

Cannery Row, above, got its name from John Steinbeck’s 1945 novel, not the other way around. Many of its former fish processing plants have been converted to restaurants, shops and wine bars.

Spanish-Mexican heritage Today the town’s Spanish-Mexican heritage is preserved in 21 historic adobes. Nineteenth-century author Richard Dana wrote that the adobe buildings sparkled in the sun because of their ground-up abalone shells. Monterey State Historic Park preserves PHOTO © PETER SVEC/DREAMSTIME

Steven Whyte’s Cannery Row monument in effect honors its important fish in bronze as well as the rowdy characters of Monterey’s fish-packing heyday. Steinbeck is immortalized, too, surrounded by eight others, including the prosperous “Madam” Flora Woods, who ran the Lone Star Café and house of ill repute in the sardine-canning days. The monument also honors Chinese fishermen and four entrepreneurs who revived Cannery Row.

and interprets 12 such buildings, including the Custom House, the oldest government building in California. Starting at the park’s headquarters in the Pacific House Museum, visitors can amble along a marked two-mile trail and see a whalebone sidewalk, historic gardens and adobes. At the Cooper-Molera Adobe, built in 1827, visitors learn that early locals made sun-dried adobe bricks from clay soil, straw, crushed seashells and horse manure. Its garden has a working, beehiveshaped oven, called an horno, which originated in Spain. The Joseph Boston Store in the Casa del Oro, built in 1845, was the first general store in Monterey; it now sells 1850sthemed merchandise, such as artisan soaps, elderberry syrups and balsamic vinegars. At the Custom House in 1846, Commodore John Drake Sloat raised the American flag and claimed more than 600,000 square miles of territory for the United States, ending Mexican rule without firing a shot. Exhibits explain that Boston seafaring merchants brought iron tools, bear traps and metal buckets to locals. They paid $1 each for cattle hides, which they sold to

belt-makers for $10 each in Boston in the 1800s. The Russians came for the region’s otter pelts, and Chinese traders brought goods like firecrackers and dishes. The free Museum of Monterey explores the town’s connection to the sea, with exhibits on the cannery workers, nautical memorabilia, boat types, a Fresnel lighthouse lens from Point Sur, and a tutorial on sardine fishing, processing and packing. At the industry’s height, there were 19 canneries and reduction plants employing hundreds of workers. (Reduction plants convert fish into feed meal, oil and other consumer products.) During World War I, the canneries shipped 1.4 million cases of sardines to troops. They had another boom in World War II.

Underwater forests The sea is both indoors and out at the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, where 100 exhibits highlight the beach, ocean and wetland habitats of a full range of marine life, including sea slugs, jellyfish, sea turtles, limpets and anemones. In an underwater kelp forest, “the redwoods of the sea,” divers plunge into the See MONTEREY, page 18

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FIFTYPLUS — AUGUST 2020

Travel insurance coverage after COVID By Ed Perkins “I had to cancel my trip because of the virus, but my insurance wouldn’t cover my prepayment losses.” This is a common complaint I’ve seen and heard, and I’m sympathetic to travelers who believe their insurance failed them. That’s not exactly the case, however, and it brings up the question of just what you can expect from travel insurance now — and in the future. The record of the current crisis is clear: Insurance sellers say that typical cancellation policies do not specifically list an “epidemic” or equivalent term as a “covered reason” to pay a cancellation claim, and that therefore the insurance is not obligated to pay.

Cancel for any reason The only claims being paid for most virus-based cancellation claims are on “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) policies, which are not restricted to enumerated “covered reasons,” but which are more expensive and typically pay no more than 75% of insured losses. Other travel writers and I have consistently urged travelers who want to cover cancellation losses to buy CFAR policies. I still do, but the COVID-19 pandemic changes the game. It’s hard for me to imagine any insurance that could provide full cash recovery

of all prepayments in future pandemics — or a recurrence of the current one — and still sell at a reasonable price. Some of us occasionally forget the basic economic model of almost any kind of insurance: A lot of people pay a little money, which they never get back, into a pot that can pay a lot of money to a few people who encounter an insured contingency. That works fine for occasional contingencies such as a house fire, a sudden medical problem, or death of a travel companion. But it fails when the same widespread contingency causes a large percentage of the insureds to cancel, and those insureds all submit big-dollar cancellation claims. To sell at reasonable rates, issuers of future policies will have to find a way to exclude claims for such far-reaching contingencies.

recovery from a supplier. Some insurers say it does, others say it doesn’t, and many don’t specify. And many travelers don’t see a credit toward a future trip they’re unlikely to take as a satisfactory recovery. If you’re considering a trip this year or next, most ordinary policies wouldn’t help you at all. Almost universally, they limit claims to “unforeseen” circumstances, and for the foreseeable future, nothing about the virus and its consequences can be considered “unforeseen.” I still see a CFAR option available on many policies, but for a sample $4,200 in cancellation coverage for a couple ages 43 to 45 on a two-week trip, CFAR adds $100 to $200 to the cost. [Older travelers may encounter even higher costs.]

Changes to expect What constitutes a refund? A related problem involves exceptions from recoverable expenses. Virtually all policies say that cancellation coverage will cover only those prepayments that you can’t first get refunded by the supplier: airline, hotel, cruise line, tour operator, whatever. But many are not clear about whether a “refund” in the form of a credit toward future travel satisfies the requirement for a

For the longer-term future, I expect to see changes to cancellation insurance: — Typical policy fine print will specifical-

ly exclude destination “epidemic” and local responses to the epidemic, such as quarantines, from lists of “covered reasons.” — Policy fine print will specify credit for future travel as satisfying the requirement for recovery from a supplier. Policies that call for suppliers to make cash refunds may still be available, but only as extracost options. — Many insurers will either abandon the CFAR option entirely or raise its price well above current levels. This is not to say that travel insurance will no longer be valuable or useful. It will still cover the usual contingencies that affect only a small minority of insured travelers. But no insurer can sell policies that are likely to result in claims from a big percentage of buyers. The industry — and the travelers — will have to adjust to that new reality. Send email to Ed Perkins at eperkins@ mind.net or visit his website at rail-guru.com. © 2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Monterey From page 16 glass tanks to feed the fish and talk to visitors from underwater. Visitors can also watch sea otters and penguins eat and play. An aviary has shorebirds and two species of penguins, tufted and horned. There’s plenty of life outside the building, too — tidal pool critters darting around, common murres skimming the surface, kingfishers and cormorants diving, and brown pelicans flapping or perch-

ing on the rocks. With museum scopes, tourists can scan the ocean for whales, seals and sea otters. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is known as the “Serengeti of the Sea” for its rich wildlife diversity. It’s the site of North America’s biggest and deepest underwater canyon, plunging more than two miles deep, and one of the largest kelp forests in the U.S. In this 6,100-square-mile sanctuary, there are 334 known species of marine mammals, more than 180 species of sea and shore-

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

Aug. 20

MEDICARE EXPENSES

Learn how to manage your healthcare expenses in retirement with a virtual webinar on Medicare plan choices, benefits and costs. The free seminar will be held on Thurs., Aug. 20 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. To register, go to https://bit.ly/MedicareExpense.

Sept. 10

CUT YOUR ENERGY BILLS

If you’re spending more time at home due to the pandemic, you may see an increase in your energy bills. Learn how to cut your home energy consumption with a free webinar on Thurs., Sept. 10 from 1 to 3 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/SaveEnergyPandemic.

Aug. 19

JOB INTERVIEW PREP

Are you trying to improve your job interview skills? Learn how to properly answer and ask questions, along with pre-interview preparation, at a virtual workshop on Wed., Aug. 19 from 2 to 3 p.m. To register, visit https://bit.ly/InterviewsVirtual.

AUGUST 2020 — FIFTYPLUS

birds and at least 525 species of fish. Several operators offer boat tours to see humpback, blue, gray and killer whales, as well as seals, dolphins, sea lions, otters, sea turtles and seabirds.

The nearby outdoors Multiple parks and preserves near Monterey offer breathtaking views and stunning nature. Pinnacles National Park near Soledad has talus caves, rolling chaparral, and dramatic rock spires and crags formed by volcanic action 23 million years ago. Lucky visitors may see an endangered California condor. Big Sur is well known for its dramatic coastal scenery, wave-sculpted blowholes, sea stacks, ancient coastal redwood trees, beaches and hiking trails. In the 19th century Point Sur Light Station, situated on a large volcanic rock promontory 316 feet above the ocean, docents tell tales of lighthouse keepers, and explain the importance of lighthouses to seafaring vessels. For wetland explorers, the Elkhorn Slough is a tidal salt marsh stretching seven miles inland from Monterey Bay, home to oak woodlands, maritime chaparral, sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions and over 340 species of birds. Here, if you look really hard, you might spot a sardine shimmering in the water.

If you go In pre-pandemic times, the Monterey Regional Airport typically offered more than 40 daily flights. The San Jose International Airport is one hour north, and San Francisco’s airport is two hours north. Currently, one-stop flights from D.C. to Monterey in September start at $240 round trip on American Airlines. Check cdc.gov for current travel recommendations. To plan your trip, visit seemonterey.com or Monterey.org. There are many guided tours available to explore the region’s history, food, wine, movies, gardens and whale watching. Upon arrival, start at the Visitors Center, 401 Camino El Estero, or call them at 1-888-221-1010. Monterey’s cuisine highlights local artichokes, mushrooms and wine from Salinas and Carmel Valley farms, located less than an hour away. Several tour companies offer food, wine and agriculture tours to “California’s Salad Bowl.” If you can’t travel now, get a glimpse of Monterey Bay’s spectacular wildlife from home. At montereybayaquarium.org/animals/live-cams, viewers can explore kelp forest life, “swim” with sharks and sea turtles, and watch moon jellies open and close like fancy, upside-down parasols. At elkhornslough.org/ottercam, you can watch otters, including playful pups, at Elkhorn Slough.

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This summer, read novels by older, wiser authors. See reviews on page 21.

Appreciating the Garden Club of Virginia

Preserving the environment Perhaps most surprising is the extent of the organization’s environmental lobbying. The garden club brought litigation to save

Goshen Pass from a proposed dam and to preserve 79,000 acres of wilderness to create Shenandoah National Park, the first large national park in the East. Over the decades, club members have educated the public on efforts to conserve our state flower and tree, the dogwood, in addition to other native plants. Since 1947, the GCV has held an Annual Conservation Forum to tackle timely topics such as pollution, waterway protection and climate change. In order to fund their projects, GCV established Historic Garden Week in 1929. The beloved annual tour of private gardens has been cancelled only twice: once during the first year of the United States’ involvement in World War II and again this year, due to COVID. The museum exhibit includes items related to Historic Garden Week: booklets, declarations and advertising posters. Also included is a colonial costume worn by a Garden Week tour guide. Running in the background of the exhibit is a promotional video of Virginia during Historic Garden Week sponsored by Standard Oil Company in the late 1950s, which publicized Virginia tourism as well as Esso gasoline. Today, with approximately 3,400 members in 48 clubs across the state, the Garden Club is still committed to conservation. GCV ’s newest contribution to Virginia is its five-year Centennial Project, which will give out $500,000 in grants for projects that benefit Virginia’s state parks. At the end of the exhibit, visitors are challenged to support several Virginia preservation organizations to extend the service of GCV.

Timed-entry tickets needed The exhibit is open for in-person visits daily, now through Sunday, Nov. 1. In consideration of social distancing, there is a prescribed path marked on the floor through the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. A brief tour of the museum

Write a letter to the editor. See page 2.

takes about an hour. There is free parking in the lot behind the museum. Admission is free for members. Prices are reduced through August: Adults are $6; seniors (65+) are $5; and youth (6–17) are $3. As part of the national program, Museums for All, guests who present their SNAP or WIC EBT card (or show the EBT app on their phone) will receive free admission to the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. COVID-19 guidelines require advance pur chase of timedentr y tickets. Timed tickets are available every half hour starting at 10:00 a.m., with the last entry time at 4:30 p.m. To reser ve tickets, go to VirginiaHistory.org/tickets.

PHOTO BY QUAN MCGOUGH, COURTESY OF GARDEN CLUB OF VIRGINIA

By Lela Martin Virginia’s diverse natural geography ranges from the Atlantic Ocean to the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Piedmont in between. One group has worked for a century to preserve those natural resources: The Garden Club of Virginia (GCV). The club was the first conservation organization in Virginia, advocating for the state parks system, monitoring state roadways cluttered by signage, and preserving many native plant habitats. “The Garden Club of Virginia was instrumental in the founding of the Virginia State Park system in the 1920s,” noted Lynn McCashin, its executive director. Around the turn of the last century, many American women formed garden clubs, focusing primarily on their home gardens. However, as women became franchised, they increasingly saw themselves as harbingers of political, environmental and social change. In 1920, seven Virginia clubs joined to establish GCV. The group’s mission was to conserve Virginia’s natural beauty and to encourage others to join its preservation efforts. Last month, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture on Arthur Ashe Boulevard recognized the importance of GCV by unveiling a new special exhibit, “A Landscape Saved: The Garden Club of Virginia at 100.” Visually appealing, the presentation showcases the good work of GCV, from remedying the blight of billboards and mining, to restoring gardens of 40 historic houses, including Mt. Vernon. The exhibit shows the location of these preserved places, many of which are open to the public, as well as landscape plans for private locations.

The 1845 Kent-Valentine House is the headquarters of the Garden Club of Virginia. The club, established in 1920, has been instrumental in conservation efforts throughout the state.

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Prepare now for “cole-d” weather crops By Lela Martin You may be in the midst of harvesting your zucchini, tomatoes and basil. However, August is also the ideal time to prepare your garden for its transition to cool-season plants like cole crops. Brassicas, or cole crops, are members of the cabbage family. “Cole” derives from the Latin meaning stem. Cole crops are part of the large genus Brassica, which come from herbs of the Old World mustard family. They include broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale and kohlrabi.

When to plant what Begin by making an inventory of vegetables you can harvest now. Then determine how much space you will have available, so you can prioritize your fall plantings. You can anticipate how long it will take for each crop to reach harvestable size by learning its approximate lifespan, noted by “days to maturity” on the seed packet or plant tag. (The Virginia Cooperative Extension publication “Cole Crops or Brassicas” lists this information as well.) Many broccoli and cabbage heirloom varieties can range anywhere from 70 to 95 days, so plan and plant accordingly for the variety you wish to grow.

You’re a “brocc”-star if you plant in order for the crops to reach maturity before the first frost. The first frost day (with a 50% probability) in the metro Richmond area is mid-October. To give your crops time to mature before autumn’s shorter days and frosty nights, plant in the heat of August. While some fast-growing fall crops such as lettuce and radishes can be planted into late September, cole crops, including broccoli, need more time. When in doubt, plant your fall crops a little early. In August, you should plant cole crops from seedlings, not seeds. Seeds should have been started in June or July. Place your transplants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows 24 inches apart.

Choose the right environment All cole crops prefer a location with full sun. Although a wide range of soils is acceptable, fertile and well-drained loams are considered best. Cole crops grow better in heavier soils than do warm season crops. Typically, a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8 is best for the cole family of vegetables. The Virginia Cooperative Extension always recommends a soil test to determine deficiencies of major plant nutrients and suggest ways to correct them. Because

cole crops can easily become deficient in minor elements, composted manure or composted vegetable matter ensures a supply of these nutrients. Cauliflower has the most demanding soil and fertility requirements in the cole family.

Avoiding problems The most significant way to reduce insect pests and diseases of cole crops is to rotate crops. To get ahead of any problems, do not plant any cole crop in a spot occupied the previous year by another cole family member. Two- or three-year rotations are preferred. One advantage of “cole-d” weather planting is that there are typically fewer insects in the fall. Additionally, there are fewer problems with bolting (the production of a flowering stem before the crop is harvested), which is common in springplanted cole plants. An effective way to control weeds is to mulch with straw. In addition to reducing weeds, straw aids in moisture retention. Consider how each crop grows and which part of the plant is eaten. For example, the edible parts of broccoli and cauliflower are the flower heads; these are more sensitive to cold and nutritional deficiencies.

Both cabbage and Brussels sprouts produce leafy heads, which can withstand greater fluctuations in weather and nutrition.

When to harvest Mature cole crops can withstand several frosts in the fall; therefore, they can be stored in the garden after they reach maturity into October or November; even later for the hardiest varieties of kale and Brussels sprouts. You should harvest cabbage when the head is very firm. Pick broccoli while the head is still compact and before the small flower buds show any yellow. The head diameter will range from four to eight inches. After the center head is harvested, you might be lucky enough to pick the side shoots when they reach two to three inches in diameter. As the sprouts of Brussels sprouts enlarge, remove the large leaves between the sprouts. Pinch out the growing tip of the plants in early September to hasten maturity. Harvest the sprouts when they are firm and before they open up. Surprisingly, a light frost or two improves their flavor. Lela Martin is a Master Gardener with the Chesterfield County office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension.

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Suspenseful fiction for summer reading By Dinah Rokach This summer, relax and enjoy these tales of crime detection, spycraft and murder as conjured by talented older authors. The Department of Sensitive Crimes: A Detective Varg Novel, by Alexander McCall Smith, 240 pages, Anchor paperback, 2020 Follow Detective Ulf Varg of the Malmo, Sweden, Criminal Investigation Authority as he solves quirky cases assigned to his Department of Sensitive Crimes. Suspected criminal cases that require investigative discretion are referred to this special plainclothes unit. Working with Ulf are his colleagues Anna Bengsdotter, Carl Holgersson and clerical assistant Erik Nykvist. The clash of personalities in a confined workspace; an office infatuation between a divorced man and a married woman; and the struggle to make progress as a team despite a bombastic, know-it-all coworker are themes that resonate beyond the borders of this Scandinavian city. Offbeat crimes and minor characters contribute to the entertaining tableau. One police officer has a knack for identifying subjects. Also adding charming touches to the novel are a compassionate therapist, a widowed neighbor and pet dog Martin who reads lips. Older readers will especially enjoy Detec-

tive Varg’s take on contemporary behavior. Although in his late 30s, the detective pines for the days when gentlemen adhered to a strict code of conduct. That’s no mystery: Varg’s creator is a septuagenarian. Scottish writer Alexander McCall Smith has written more than 100 novels. He brings a wry sensibility to this beguiling mystery, the first of a series about Detective Varg. There are no murders, no corpses, no guns in this whodunit. The Department of Sensitive Crimes has been labeled, with tongue firmly in cheek, Scandi Blanc — a new genre of fiction. Agent Running in the Field: A Novel, by John le Carré, 288 pages, Viking hardcover, 2019 Octogenarian author John le Carré has written a nuanced, dramatic, well drawn portrait of a 47-year-old British spy, home from his overseas postings. Those experiences were dramatic, important and dangerous compared to his current, staid London grind. Agent Nat is anchored by the love and forbearance of his wife, Prue, a radical attorney. He hearkens to his early years as a spy during the Cold War when right and wrong were in stark contrast. He is dismayed by the contemporary state of affairs. (Aren’t we all?) Nat’s experience at spycraft holds him in good stead as he must navigate a crisis in his career. The tale is briskly told without undue

complications. The excellent plotline of Agent Running in the Field is entertaining and full of surprises as readers get a glimpse into the secret world of undercover operatives. The story’s events are neither far-fetched nor overly dramatized. Better still is le Carré’s wise insight into human relationships — complicated by factors such as betrayal and diverse philosophies — that stands the test of time. The elegance, courtesy, stiff-upper-lip mentality and understatement, which permeate the behavior of the older British generation, contrasts with the outspoken, harsh histrionics of the book’s younger characters. Older readers will be enchanted. One Good Deed, by David Baldacci, 464 pages, Grand Central Publishing paperback, 2020 Richmond, Virginia, native and Fairfax County resident David Baldacci takes us back to small town, post-World War II America in this exciting thriller. Army veteran Aloysius Archer, in his first days as a free man after his release from prison, encounters troubles that culminate in a trial for his very life. The book opens as Archer boards the bus from Carderock Prison to report to his parole officer in Paco City. Settling in and beginning life anew proves fraught with temptations and terror, murder and mayhem. Meet the colorful and complicated

townspeople who become his friends, antagonists, cohorts and nemeses. Appearances prove to be deceiving. Someone’s past can be readily misunderstood. Villains may be victims. As the action unfolds, characters are revealed to be more than skindeep and their motivations ultimately understood in their proper context. Baldacci, a prolific author who has sold more than 130 million novels worldwide, joins the ranks of “older adults” when he celebrates his 60th birthday this month. Welcome to the club!

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HOW TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions). Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this amount for you. Note: Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason. Questions? Call (804) 673-5203.

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advice about your garden? Ask a master gardener with the Virginia Cooperative extension by submitting a question online, or by browsing the answers from previous submissions. To submit a question, visit rvalibrary.org/master-gardener.

Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Kennel Club 1

By Stephen Sherr

45 49

28 33

21 24

18 20

51 54

Across 1. Deliverance transport 6. Chocolate source 11. “Hey; I can’t hear the movie” 14. On ___ (getting a lot of 7’s) 15. Prepare to receive the next correspondence 16. Gardener’s tool 17. Wardrobe item useful in a Grease revival 19. Measurement unit named for a German physicist 20. Green-lighted 21. Coniferous tree you may like 22. Prepare for the annual refresher test 24. Spend time inside a bourbon barrel 26. Lawyers’ org. 28. Doctrines 29. Glucose level, for example 34. First-stringers 35. Runs in neutral 36. Like many apples 39. Animation unit 40. Visual effects co. sold from George Lucas to Disney in 2012 42. Enzyme ending 43. Words spoken at the rehearsal dinner 44. Slithery swimmer 45. “___ say more?” 47. One of the Fab Four 49. iPad input tool 52. Last word of the bible 54. ___ few rounds 55. Legal Due Diligence, briefly, in briefs 56. Second-time broadcast 58. 23andMe data source 60. Afore “the land of the free” 63. Econ. value some find disgusting 64. One preparing for a bout 68. “Never let yesterday ___ up too much of today” (Will Rogers) 69. Black tea 70. Hollywood or Rose Bowl 71. Personal pencil holder

60 66

62 67

72. Stumbling blocks 73. Fancy tie Down 1. It displays the baseball team’s logo 2. End of buck- or kang3. Cozy spot 4. Obsolete information 5. Building wing 6. Open and shut ___ 7. Socially uncomfortable 8. Airport code for Egypt’s busiest airport 9. Where B-52’s are stationed 10. Germany’s von Bismarck 11. Tiny budget 12. Uninspired 13. Strong ropes 18. Stares at, suspiciously 23. Goals in a scoreless tie 25. One born on Memorial Day 27. Ritzy Los Angeles neighborhood 29. Slip someone a Mickey 30. Suit to ___ 31. Ingredient in Sizzling Steak Fajitas 32. At the stroke of 13, it is ___ get a new clock 33. Logon requirement 37. Crispiest brownie piece 38. It opens upwards on a DeLorean 41. Add inches 46. “Nobody kicks a ___” (Dale Carnegie) 48. “Tea to the English is really a picnic ___” (Alice Walker) 50. Last word before “Blastoff!” 51. The Death Star’s thermal exhaust port, for example 52. Try to influence the jury 53. Club for brainiacs 57. Egyptian cobras 59. Yesses and ___ 61. Member of the c-suite 62. The Biggest Little City in the World 65. Acronym on a wanted poster 66. Comment from a black sheep 67. Chef in Ratatouille

Answers on page 21.

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